Let’s Talk! | The Mission Is Bigger Than You Think | EP. 6

What if missions isn't something reserved for a select few Christians who feel called to go somewhere far away?

In Episode 6 of Let’s Talk!, Billy sits down with Pastor Dale and missionary leader Joe Gordon to continue the conversation from Global Outreach weekend and explore what it means for ordinary followers of Jesus to participate in His mission.

Joe shares how hearing about people who had never heard the gospel changed the direction of his life and eventually led him to serve across Eurasia, a region spanning 44 countries and more than two billion people.

The conversation explores Jesus' command to make disciples, the impact missionaries have had throughout history, and what God is doing around the world today. Joe shares firsthand stories from places including Syria and Iran, talks about thousands of people groups that remain unreached or unengaged, and explains why the global Church is increasingly sending missionaries across borders.

They also wrestle with what Christians in America can learn from believers who follow Jesus through persecution, hardship, and tremendous sacrifice.

But missions isn't only about somewhere else.

Prayer, giving, going, serving, and simply noticing the person God has placed next to you can all become part of living on mission.

The question isn't whether God's mission includes us.

It's what part He is asking us to play.

CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION

Use these questions with your small group, family, friends, or for personal reflection:

-Joe said that Jesus assumes His disciples will be going, and the command is to make disciples “as you go.” Who has God already placed in your everyday life that you could intentionally love, serve, and point toward Jesus?

-Joe said, “The goal of life on earth is not going to heaven. The goal of life on earth is bringing glory to the name of Jesus.” How would your priorities change if you genuinely lived with that perspective?

-Hearing stories of believers following Jesus through persecution can challenge the way we view our own faith. What parts of following Jesus have become easy for you to take for granted?

-Joe described prayer as “not an act of strength, but an admission of weakness.” What situation in your life or in the world feels beyond your ability to change? What would it look like to bring that honestly before God?

-Missions can involve going across the world, but it can also begin with the person in the cubicle, classroom, neighborhood, or home next to us. Where might God be asking you to stop simply noticing a need and begin participating?

Take a moment to pray: Ask God to open your eyes to what He is doing around you, give you His heart for people, and show you the part He is asking you to play. Be willing to listen if His answer requires you to go, give, pray, serve, or simply love the person already in front of you.